Andaman Ferry FAQs: 25+ Questions Answered (2026)
Everything travelers actually ask about Andaman ferries, answered in one place — booking, prices, schedules, operators, foreigner rules, cancellations, and what the crossing is like. If you’re planning to island-hop between Port Blair, Havelock, and Neil, start here.
Can’t find your question? The fastest way to compare operators, fares, and timings — and confirm foreign-passport booking — is on BookYourFerry. For machine-readable operator, route, and fare data, see our open Andaman ferry dataset.
Frequently asked questions
How do I book an Andaman ferry?
Book online in advance through a ferry booking platform, the operator’s own site, or a local agent. Pick your route and date, choose an operator and class, enter passenger details, and pay. You’ll get an e-ticket — carry a printout plus matching photo ID. For the full process, see our Andaman ferry booking guide.
How far in advance should I book an Andaman ferry?
For peak season (October to May), book 2 to 4 weeks ahead. Morning departures and the cheapest classes sell out first. Off-season you can often book a few days out, but monsoon weather (June to September) can cancel sailings, so keep a buffer day before any onward flight.
Can I book Andaman ferries on arrival?
You can try, but it’s risky in peak season when ferries sell out. Counter tickets at Haddo Jetty depend on last-minute availability, which is thin during busy months. Booking online ahead of time is the only reliable way to lock in a morning crossing.
What ID do I need to board an Andaman ferry?
A government photo ID that matches the name on your ticket — Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, or voter ID for Indian nationals. Foreign nationals must carry their passport. Names must match exactly, so book using the name on the ID you’ll travel with.
How much does the Andaman ferry cost?
Private ferries on Port Blair to Havelock cost Rs 1,100 to Rs 3,400 depending on operator and class, plus a Rs 50 service fee per sector. Government ferries cost Rs 400 to Rs 700 but have very limited tourist seats. See the full Andaman ferry prices breakdown.
What’s the cheapest Andaman ferry?
Green Ocean Economy at Rs 1,100 is the cheapest private ferry on the Port Blair to Havelock route. Government ferries are cheaper still at Rs 400 to Rs 700, but their tourist quota is small and sells out fast, so they’re rarely a practical option for visitors.
Are there extra charges on top of the ferry fare?
Yes. Private ferries add a Rs 50 port service fee per sector, and three of the four operators add a Rs 300 to Rs 350 fuel surcharge — ITT Majestic dropped its surcharge in May 2026. Always check the final total at checkout, not just the headline fare.
Can I pay for the ferry onboard or only online?
Private ferries are booked and paid for in advance, online or through an agent — there’s no pay-onboard option. Government ferry tickets are sold through their counter and the STARS portal, also before travel.
How long is the ferry from Port Blair to Havelock?
About 90 minutes on a fast catamaran (Makruzz, Nautika, ITT Majestic). Green Ocean takes 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes because it cruises slower. The slower ride is actually smoother if you’re prone to seasickness.
How many ferries run per day in Andaman?
Up to 16 daily departures cross from Port Blair to Havelock across the four private operators, most stacked between 6:00 and 9:00 AM. Fewer run on the Havelock to Neil and Neil to Port Blair legs. Check the live ferry schedule for exact times.
What time is the first and last Andaman ferry?
The earliest departures leave Haddo Jetty around 6:00 AM, and the last useful sailings to Havelock go early afternoon. Times shift seasonally, so verify before you travel. Morning ferries hit the calmest seas and are the safer choice for tight flight connections.
Can I reach Havelock the same day I land in Port Blair?
Yes, if your flight lands by about 11:00 AM. That leaves time for airport formalities, the transfer to Haddo Jetty, and an afternoon ferry. Land after roughly 1:00 PM and you’ll likely overnight in Port Blair — see how to reach Havelock for timing details.
Which ferry is best in Andaman?
It depends on your priority. Nautika has the best service, Makruzz is the most reliable with the most departures, Green Ocean is cheapest and best for seasickness, and ITT Majestic offers panoramic windows with no fuel surcharge.
What are the Andaman ferry classes?
Each operator names them differently — Economy, Premium, Deluxe, Luxury, Royal, Business. Higher classes generally mean upper-deck seats, more space, and better views. Only Makruzz Royal includes food. See our guide to Andaman ferry classes for what each actually gets you.
Is food included on the Andaman ferry?
Only on Makruzz Royal class, which includes a sandwich and a drink. Every other class on every operator is cafeteria purchase only (Rs 50 to Rs 100 for basics). Makruzz Gold’s cafeteria is catered by Taj and noticeably better than the rest.
Do any Andaman ferries have an open deck?
Only Green Ocean 1. It’s the single Andaman ferry where passengers can step outside for fresh air and open views — and the open deck sometimes turns into a DJ party. Every other ferry, including Nautika and Makruzz, is fully enclosed and air-conditioned.
Can foreigners book Andaman ferries online?
Not always directly. Several private operators don’t allow direct online booking for foreign passports, so you may need to book through a local agent or a platform that handles foreign-national bookings. Sort this before you arrive rather than at the jetty.
Do foreigners need a permit for the Andaman ferries?
Foreign nationals no longer need the old Restricted Area Permit for most tourist islands including Havelock and Neil, but rules change — verify current requirements before travel. You’ll still need your passport to book and board every ferry.
Can I cancel or change my Andaman ferry ticket?
Policies vary by operator. Most allow cancellation with a fee if done well before departure, and changes are sometimes possible subject to availability. Refund amounts shrink closer to sailing. Check the specific operator’s terms at booking — don’t assume a flexible policy.
What happens if the Andaman ferry is cancelled due to weather?
Operators typically refund or reschedule weather-cancelled sailings, most common during monsoon (June to September). This is why you should never book a ferry for the same day as an onward flight in monsoon season — always leave a buffer day in Port Blair.
Are Andaman ferries safe?
Yes. The private catamarans are modern, well-maintained vessels operating a routine 90-minute crossing daily. Seas are calmest in the morning. Monsoon sailings can be choppy and are sometimes cancelled for safety, which is the system working as intended.
Is there air conditioning on Andaman ferries?
Yes, every private ferry is air-conditioned. It runs cool but manageable — bring a light layer and you’ll be comfortable, but you won’t be freezing. Don’t believe descriptions of “Arctic” AC; it’s a comfortable cabin temperature for a 90-minute ride.
How much luggage can I bring on the ferry?
Each operator sets its own baggage allowance, generally enough for normal travel luggage with limits on excess weight. Oversized or excess bags may incur a charge. Pack a small day bag for the crossing and keep valuables with you rather than in checked luggage.
Which Andaman ferry is better for seasickness?
Green Ocean, because its slower speed makes for a smoother ride, and GO1’s open deck helps. Sail in the morning, sit midship on the lower deck, and take medication 30 minutes before boarding. Full tips in our Andaman ferry seasickness guide.